Flatulence can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and awkward. When undigested food passes into the large intestine, bacteria break it down the food, producing gas that eventually exits the body through the rectum. An increased intake of carbohydrates often causes flatulence because the body doesn't digest and absorb some carbohydrates in the small intestine.
Sugar
The sugars lactose, fructose, sorbitol and raffinose are the main culprits of gas production. Lactose is found naturally in dairy products and requires the enzyme lactase for digestion. With age, your level of lactase decreases, which can lead to the production of gas as lactose passes through your digestive system. Fructose and sorbitol are naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables, which can also cause flatulence. Raffinose is a polysaccharide found most famously in beans and legumes.
Starch
Starch is another type of carbohydrate. Starch foods include vegetables like potatoes and corn, or other foods like pasta and wheat. Rice is also a starch, but it does not lead to gas production because of the manner in which it is digested. However, most other starchy foods continue to get broken down in the large intestine, causing gas.
Fiber
Funny enough, fiber can be both a cause of, and relief for, gas. Soluble fiber, like that found in oats, beans, fruit, vegetables and peas, absorbs water and is, therefore, digested in the large intestine, causing gas production. However, constipation can also cause flatulence, and increasing your intake of fiber can help relieve constipation, thereby, reducing gas.
Amount
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, passing gas about 14 times per day is considered normal and not at all excessive. However, too much gas may indicate a problem. If you pass gas too much, it can indicate ulcers, inflammation or a malfunctioning sphincter. If you are concerned about the amount of gas you are producing, consult with your doctor.
